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Testimonials

[I value] the fact I was able to talk about things in my own time and pace. Not feeling pressured at all. I felt listened to and more importantly, believed.

It was nice for me to have someone to talk to who could not just listen but give advice as well. I also was really happy that I learnt more about myself through these sessions.

She was lovely and made me feel comfortable about speaking about what had happened and she was able to tell me what will happen next [if I choose to report].

My protective shell now lets the air through! I don't feel responsible for protecting every young woman. I don't feel the need to be on constant alert for danger.

[My counsellor] is fantastic! She is calm, empathetic, real in her responses. Her honesty and demeanour made it easier to get past my trust issues and get down to "work". The fact that the sessions are free made me feel like the time was a precious gift and therefore I had to use the time responsibly.

The continuity of our sessions helped me cope on a daily basis. Couldn't have made it this far without this service.

The lady I spoke with [when I self-referred to the ISVA service] was warm, welcoming, helpful and replied to my on-line message the same day if not the next day. My ISVA contacted me just 5 days after my initial call.

[I appreciate] The feeling of not being alone & isolated & I hope that this group can be repeated to help and support more women in our situation in understanding and knowing they are NOT ALONE!

It was a way to express emotions in a safe environment.

Counselling has had a massive influence on me and get through one of the most difficult times of my life so far. [My counsellor] has been amazing and taught me how to trust again, deal with my feelings in a more positive and productive way & I am so incredibly grateful for being given this time and support.

The encouragement and support and having a safe space to openly talk and not be judged for it

Non-judgemental, honest caring people who have been with us every step of the way.

I'm not really sure if I can find the words to say how grateful I am for being given the recent counselling.
It has changed my life immeasurably, and got me through some really difficult things and thoughts. I have no idea how I would have got through it without the support I have received. From challenging me on negative thoughts, helping me find hope and understanding to encouraging me to take time out from work when I really needed it, I can't imagine how anyone could have done a better job.

They are doing a great job offering support to rape victims in the community, make them open up about how they feel, it is great they are available to talk to, because they are something you do not want to discuss with family or friends. Just because we all think they will be judgemental.

My ISVA did so much for me and I couldn't have asked for more.

It has helped me talk to friends, talk to my partner and made those relationships stronger as well as helping me understand and forgive myself for things that happened in the past.

I was really impressed with the support and kindness I experienced from the ISVA service. It gave me confidence to start dealing with the situation. It's a great service.

[My ISVA helped me with] understanding that how I felt was rational and my experiences were real.

Absolutely can't fault [my ISVA]. She's been completely brilliant. If there was a stronger agree option, that is where I'd've ticked.

It has made me feel more confident in terms of speaking out about what happened to me. The counselling has helped me deal with everyday emotions and situations which I could not talk to anyone else about. I feel more comfortable now to open up and speak to a counsellor honestly now I've built their trust.

I felt like I was believed and wasn't judged with how I felt and everything that happened.

[Counselling] has helped me understand what happened in relation to my mental health and to find holistic coping mechanisms. It has also helped me figure out potential life purpose.

The feeling of isolation has subsided, just knowing there's someone who understands has made it easier to cope.

Amazing support.

Talking with my therapist […] was really helpful for many aspects of my life.

[My ISVA] was so kind and supportive - I honestly couldn't speak more highly of her.

[I valued] being able to open up to someone that's not connected with my family.

I feel more confident in talking about my problems instead of hiding them.